Opus One 2015
Opus One is arguably Napa's most famous winery. It was established in 1979 as a joint venture between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. Their goal was to craft a wine that combined the intensity and fruit purity of Napa, with the elegance of top Bordeaux. Today it is one of the most iconic and revered wines made in California, and the world. Opus One, like any great work, arose out of passion. Dedicated to uncompromised quality, Opus One’s sole purpose is to express this vision and passionate spirit for generations to come.
Opus One is the shared dream turned reality, a testament to absolute quality in winemaking. It is the result of the vision and collaboration between two iconic figures in the wine world: Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. Together, they set out to create a single wine that would embody uncompromising quality, a mission that continues to shape each vintage.
Opus One is an expression of time and place, capturing the essence of each vintage and the unique terroir in which it is cultivated. The character of the wine reflects the geography, climate and the human touch that defines its balance between power and finesse, structure and texture. It is a harmonious fusion of nature and the winemaker's artistry. The winery itself stands as a graceful tribute to the founders' vision, rising majestically from the vineyards. It pays homage to the land and the open space that surrounds it, a constant reminder of the transcendent nature of Opus One. This singular wine is built to honour their dream and to be enjoyed by generations to come. The foundations of Opus One are firmly rooted in the vineyards. Great winemaking begins here, where four meticulously hedged parcels form the estate. These vineyards, located in the renowned Oakville AVA, include two parcels within the esteemed To Kalon Vineyard and the Ballestra and River parcels that envelop the winery. Traditional approaches, such as hand-harvesting, are employed when appropriate, while modern techniques are embraced when they enhance the winegrowing process.
The Opus One winery itself is a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. Rising gently from the earth, it seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, offering a seamless transition from the vineyard to its lush green exterior. Just as it honours the land, it embraces the light, creating an environment where great winemaking truly begins. Opus One is the embodiment of a shared dream and a commitment to excellence. With each vintage, the complex subtleties of Opus One are refined, blending tradition with innovation to create a wine that is timeless and extraordinary. It is a testament to the art of winemaking, where delicate coaxing and gentle restraint bring forth the unique characteristics of each vintage. Opus One stands as a symbol of passion, dedication and the enduring pursuit of unparalleled quality.
Opus One 2015 is a wine that exudes purity and brilliance from the moment it is savoured. The nose is filled with an abundance of currant and flower character, creating an aromatic experience that is both captivating and alluring. Aromas of roses, currant bush and fresh leaves further enrich the bouquet, adding layers of complexity to the wine. Brightness is the defining characteristic of Opus One 2015. This full-bodied wine possesses a broad-shouldered presence that commands attention. On the palate, it reveals its true beauty, offering a juicy and gorgeous expression of its flavors. The balance achieved in this vintage is truly remarkable, as the fruit and tannins harmoniously come together to create a seamless and integrated sensation. Opus One 2015 is a testament to the artistry of winemaking, as it showcases the perfect balance between fruit and tannins. The fruit flavors are vibrant and expressive, while the tannins provide structure and support without overpowering the palate. The result is a wine that is harmonious and well-rounded, delivering a truly pleasurable tasting experience. This vintage is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that goes into crafting each bottle of Opus One. The fruit and tannin balance achieved in Opus One 2015 is a testament to the winemaker's skill and expertise. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now, showcasing its gorgeous flavors, while also having the potential to age gracefully and evolve further over time.
Purity and brilliance on the nose with so much currant and flower character. Roses, currant bush and fresh leaves, too. Brightness is the word that comes to mind. Full-bodied and broad-shouldered. Juicy and so gorgeous now. Balance is so wonderful here. All about harmonious fruit and tannin balance. I like it slightly better than the excellent 2014. - James Suckling, 98 Points
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Cabernet Sauvignon 81%, Cabernet Franc 7%, Merlot 6%, Petit Verdot 4%, Malbec 2%
Country - United States
Region - Napa Valley, California
Vintage - 2015
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 15%
Closure - Cork